Philips Respironics Class Action Lawsuits Call For Reimbursement of Recalled CPAP/BiPAP Machines and Ventilators
After millions of individuals were recently warned to stop using their popular CPAP and BiPAP devices, which may release toxic particles and gases directly into the air pathway, a number of Philips Respironics class action lawsuits have been filed, calling for the manufacturer to cover the full cost of replacing the recalled sleep apnea machines.
A massive Philips CPAP machine recall was issued on June 14, impacting CPAP, BiPAP and mechanical ventilator products sold since 2009, which contained a PE-PUR sound abatement foam that may degrade and release black particles and chemicals directly into the mouth, nose or throat.
Shortly before announcing the recall, Koninklijke Philips N.V. announced it was introducing a new version of the CPAP and BiPAP machines, known as the “DreamStations 2”, which it indicates does not experience the same foam degradation issues.
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While individuals who rely on the breathing machines for treatment of sleep apnea have been told to immediately stop using the devices, the manufacturer has not offered free replacements or provided any time-line for when recall repairs may begin to replace the defective sound abatement foam.
At least two class action lawsuits have already been filed against Koninklijke Philips N.V., seeking to force the company to reimburse the costs of replacing the recalled CPAP and BiPAP machines, including one complaint (PDF) filed by Elizabeth Heilman in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania on July 5, and a separate complaint (PDF) filed by a group of four plaintiffs in the District of Massachusetts on July 9.
The cases are the first of what is expected to be a flood of Philips CPAP/BiPAP machine class action claims, as well as individual injury lawsuits that will be filed by individuals diagnosed with cancer, respiratory issues or other health problems that may be the result of exposure to chemicals and debris released by the PE-PUR foam.
According to Heilman’s lawsuit, she bought a Philips Respironics DreamStation CPAP machine about three years ago, and used the device every night on the advice of her doctor. Although it was expected to last for at least five years, Heilman indicates that Philips will not reimburse her for the cost of purchasing a new CPAP machine to replace the one with defective foam.
“Plaintiff consulted with her doctors and has ordered a new machine, which she will have to pay for out of her health insurance deductible,” the lawsuit states. “Plaintiff would not have purchased the DreamStation machine if she had known it was defective. Plaintiff seeks a refund, reimbursement for the replacement, and all other appropriate damages for all the injuries she has suffered as a result of her defective DreamStation.”
The lawsuit seeks class action status to pursue damages on behalf of all individuals who purchased a recalled Philips CPAP machine, which may increase the risk of cancer, pulmonary fibrosis and other injuries, including headaches, irritation, inflammation and respiratory issues.
The other complaint, filed by Matthew Hufnus, Christopher Ludgate, Tony Shapiro-Bey and Stephen Smith makes virtually identical claims, each indicating that devices they purchased are now worthless, and pose a potential threat to their health, claiming Philips should be required to pay to have them replaced.
“Plaintiffs have been advised by Philips to discontinue use of their devices,” that lawsuit states. “Plaintiffs must now spend a substantial amount of time and incure substantial expenses to replace the device.”
Philips CPAP Machine Health Risks
After Philips Respironics first disclosed the health risks posed by the CPAP/BiPAP machine foam, the FDA issued a safety communication on June 30, warning consumers and healthcare providers to immediately stop using the recalled breathing machines and seek medical attention if they are experiencing side effects.
The FDA warns replacement devices may not be readily available, and indicates individuals who use Philips DreamStation, CPAP or BiPAP machines should contact their healthcare providers to discuss a suitable treatment alternatives, which may involve more long-term life-style changes or more invasive CPAP treatment options.
For users with recalled Philips ventilators, which provide mechanical breathing assistance, the FDA indicates not to stop or change ventilator until after speaking with a doctor, as some patients require the life-sustaining therapy. While these users can place an inline bacterial filter in the device to catch the foam particles before they enter the airways, this may impede the ventilator performance and increase resistance of airflow through the device, according to federal health officials. In addition, this will not protect against problems caused by “off-gassing” of chemicals from the degraded foam.
Philips has suggested individuals living in areas with high temperatures or humidity may face an increased risk of the CPAP machine foam degrading, and certain ozone or UV light cleaning products may further accelerate the problems.
The Dutch manufacturer, Koninklijke Philips, N.V. generated over $23 billion in revenue last year, and is expected to face massive liability from lawsuits and CPAP machine settlements over the next few years.
17 Comments
PatrickSeptember 9, 2023 at 11:15 pm
I have acute sleep apnea and the CPAP totally addressed my “stop breathing” issue. I got the recall notice, filed the return claim, and even though advised to stop, I had no choice but to continue using the Dreamstation. I ultimately got a recall replacement, after 4 months. It works, but only after reading the current information on the recall did I realize Philips isn’t even making a Dr[Show More]I have acute sleep apnea and the CPAP totally addressed my “stop breathing” issue. I got the recall notice, filed the return claim, and even though advised to stop, I had no choice but to continue using the Dreamstation. I ultimately got a recall replacement, after 4 months. It works, but only after reading the current information on the recall did I realize Philips isn’t even making a Dreamstion anymore. I’ve got to question why I was even sent a replacement machine manufactured in 2018, a year older than the one I returned. As soon as I’m eligible with Medicare I’m getting a new CPAP and it won’t be from Philips.
PatrickFebruary 28, 2022 at 12:17 pm
Phillips bipap , what do I do with this? Help!
DonnaDecember 17, 2021 at 4:50 pm
Trouble with machine and have trouble breathing
LisaNovember 30, 2021 at 10:33 pm
I am concerned that Philips did not offer to replace my son’s recalled CPAP machine. He has multiple medical issues, including TAR syndrome and obstructive sleep apnea. He also has learning disabilities. After 2 months without using his CPAP, my son became depressed and lethargic. I had to buy a CPAP machine out of my own pocket (paid $1100) in September, in order for him to be able to functio[Show More]I am concerned that Philips did not offer to replace my son’s recalled CPAP machine. He has multiple medical issues, including TAR syndrome and obstructive sleep apnea. He also has learning disabilities. After 2 months without using his CPAP, my son became depressed and lethargic. I had to buy a CPAP machine out of my own pocket (paid $1100) in September, in order for him to be able to function at school, and in order to help his mental health. We have STILL not received a replacement. I also have a sister in law who is battling multiple health issues, along with sleep apnea. She has also been without a CPAP machine since June, due to this recall. She does not have the money to purchase a new machine out of pocket, and has been suffering from lack of sleep for 5 months now. This is unconscionable. Please let me know if we can join the class action suit. Thank you.
WilliamNovember 12, 2021 at 1:03 am
Hope you folks can help me with this. I have used a C-Pap for many years and this has never happened before.
TomOctober 22, 2021 at 7:32 pm
No correspondence from Philips my unit affected. They don't care . Inthus health care washing their hands too even though supplied me components for the unit knowing my unit affected. It's a legal response now my only option
MindyOctober 21, 2021 at 4:27 pm
I have not been able to get my BiPap replaced since the recall. I have called 7 times to get updates. Each time I call I tell them I want my case escalated. I have yet to hear back. Since I have had unit for less then 5 years Medicare will not be replace. We are not in a financial position position to buy a new machine and all ongoing supplies. I am waking up with headaches, excessive dayti[Show More]I have not been able to get my BiPap replaced since the recall. I have called 7 times to get updates. Each time I call I tell them I want my case escalated. I have yet to hear back. Since I have had unit for less then 5 years Medicare will not be replace. We are not in a financial position position to buy a new machine and all ongoing supplies. I am waking up with headaches, excessive daytime sleepiness, to the point I cannot drive. I have had 2 sinus infections since discontinuing Bi-Pap.
KellyOctober 9, 2021 at 10:30 pm
I had to get my first CPAP in June of 2019 It is a dream station auto. After a while I started waking up with horrible headaches and sometimes nose bleeds. I now use medications for asthma and Later on I developed COPD and now continuously have nasal and chest congestion. The headaches continue and only on one side and it is constant. I have started having swelling in my feet and legs the past 6 m[Show More]I had to get my first CPAP in June of 2019 It is a dream station auto. After a while I started waking up with horrible headaches and sometimes nose bleeds. I now use medications for asthma and Later on I developed COPD and now continuously have nasal and chest congestion. The headaches continue and only on one side and it is constant. I have started having swelling in my feet and legs the past 6 months and can't figure it out it is very painful. I was never sent any calls or letter or email about this recall. I was in need of a new mask and went online and saw so many people having problems and illnesses from the CPAP. I need to be paid back in full price of my CPAP was $1900.00 US dollars. I don't care that my insurance paid part of it because I pay for the insurance! I need to be paid for the 2 sleep studies Lung Cat Scans, Breathing tests and lost time at work to have the procedures done. I also need them to pay for an insurance policy for the COPD and lung cancer if I get lung cancer in the future. I also need a CPAP machine that is safe. Kelly
GarySeptember 22, 2021 at 2:38 am
I have been a Bipap patient for many years. My first device was a Resmed and it died after 7 years. I have been using a DreamStation for 2 years. I heard nothing from Phillips until I called them. I can’t sleep well at all, I have two types of apnea and additionally suffer from Afib. I had a stroke in 2000. My physician says I need to be on a BiPap. A replacement will not paid for until this [Show More]I have been a Bipap patient for many years. My first device was a Resmed and it died after 7 years. I have been using a DreamStation for 2 years. I heard nothing from Phillips until I called them. I can’t sleep well at all, I have two types of apnea and additionally suffer from Afib. I had a stroke in 2000. My physician says I need to be on a BiPap. A replacement will not paid for until this machine is 5 years old. I do not want to pay over 2k for a new BiPap even if I can find one. I have been married for 52 years and my wife can’t sleep with me because of my snoring.
RobertSeptember 19, 2021 at 1:19 pm
*I need a Machine now. How do i go about getting a new one.
MelvinAugust 17, 2021 at 9:00 am
I’ve had my philips bipap machine for about a year and take it with me as I travel each week. I do not feel safe continuing the use of this machine and I get absolutely no communication in regards to replacement. My machine has been registered but no one at philips communicates. Cant wait any longer as I need my machine to sleep. Going to get a new machine and will have to find recourse as to [Show More]I’ve had my philips bipap machine for about a year and take it with me as I travel each week. I do not feel safe continuing the use of this machine and I get absolutely no communication in regards to replacement. My machine has been registered but no one at philips communicates. Cant wait any longer as I need my machine to sleep. Going to get a new machine and will have to find recourse as to how to get my $$$ back.
ChrisAugust 17, 2021 at 12:07 am
I ended up with cancer, asthma and copd due to this machine. I have beat the cancer so far but with all the cancers it can cause and how long I've been on my machine, it could be years down the road before I find out if the machine caused anything else in my body. I have stopped mine, contacted Philips with not even an apology or an offer of a replacement. So I contacted a lawyer. Hopefully these [Show More]I ended up with cancer, asthma and copd due to this machine. I have beat the cancer so far but with all the cancers it can cause and how long I've been on my machine, it could be years down the road before I find out if the machine caused anything else in my body. I have stopped mine, contacted Philips with not even an apology or an offer of a replacement. So I contacted a lawyer. Hopefully these lawsuits shine light on the Philips company and they do the right thing for the people they have hurt. I was diagnosed with a death sentence because of their machine. COPD will kill me eventually. And all this time I've suffered and felt like I was dying already, I pray no one else ever has to go threw. I see my scar on my face every day that reminds me of what that company did to me and others. This should have never happened. All I can suggest is if you did have one that was recalled, please call a lawyer. And I wish everyone who had one that was recalled the best of luck. I'll keep y'all informed about my lawsuit.
ZoeAugust 12, 2021 at 5:46 am
I am a CPAP supplier and the impact that this has had on my livelihood is immeasurable. We have been afforded very little information by Philips and due to the recall, there is a worldwide shortage of the other brands. I now have no stock to sell and no income, I also do sleep studies but what is the point if I diagnose someone with CPAP I can't put them on treatment. I have customers that have pu[Show More]I am a CPAP supplier and the impact that this has had on my livelihood is immeasurable. We have been afforded very little information by Philips and due to the recall, there is a worldwide shortage of the other brands. I now have no stock to sell and no income, I also do sleep studies but what is the point if I diagnose someone with CPAP I can't put them on treatment. I have customers that have purchased Philips machines ringing wanting refunds, exchanges or rentals but we can't supply as again we are out of stock. I have 3 staff and no income so most likely I'm going to have to shut shop.
ChrisAugust 9, 2021 at 12:42 pm
My husband has a lot of health issues.. he’s not sleeping well etc etc.. called with no response.. he had to buy a cpap costing 900$. Issurance won’t cover it.. there needs to be so compensation for this!!! This is ridiculous!!!
LuisAugust 9, 2021 at 3:48 am
I want them to pay me a cancer insurance for at least the next 15 years in case I develop cancer due to the defect. Also a new cpap replacement without the problem.
RandiJuly 30, 2021 at 1:32 am
I want reimbursement.
JohnJuly 19, 2021 at 8:03 pm
I contacted Philips at www.philips.com/SRCupdate.Expertinquiry.com....and called them at 877-907-7508 to no avail